It's the time of year when football managers, in the thick of a title race, sit in front of TV cameras and are economical with their views.
‘We’re just concentrating on what we do,’ they tell you, even though you both know the opposite is true. They are all aware what steps their rivals are making, who they have to play and what fixtures on the run to the line are fraught with danger.
The Premier League is so compelling this season because three giants are all matching strides approaching the final furlong: the odds-on favourite, Manchester City, might have just poked their nose in front but their two pursuers, Arsenal and Liverpool, still have plenty to give.